Right to Choose explained

What "Right to Choose" means

In England, NHS patients generally have a legal right to ask to be referred to a different provider of NHS-funded care than the one their GP might normally use, as long as that provider offers the relevant service on NHS terms and is suitable for their needs. This applies to many types of care, including some ADHD and autism assessment services. It is often called the "Right to Choose".

This guide explains the general idea in plain English. It is not legal advice, and rules, provider lists and local arrangements can change. Always check current guidance with your GP practice or NHS England, and ask any provider directly about their current position before assuming you're eligible.

Why this matters for ADHD and autism assessment

Waiting lists for NHS ADHD and autism assessments through the usual local pathway can be long in many areas. Right to Choose can, in principle, let some patients ask for referral to an alternative NHS-commissioned provider that may have shorter waiting times, if that provider is accepting Right to Choose referrals and can meet the person's needs.

It's important to understand that:

• Not every private clinic accepts Right to Choose referrals, and the list of participating providers can change over time.
• Eligibility criteria, funding arrangements and referral processes are set nationally and locally, and they are updated periodically.
• A GP still has to make the referral, and referrals normally need to meet certain conditions (for example, the provider must be suitable and able to deliver the service within their NHS contract).

Because these details shift, this guide focuses on the general concepts rather than specific rules, so you know what questions to ask.

The general concepts

1. It is about choice of provider, not a new type of assessment

Right to Choose does not change what an assessment involves. A provider used under Right to Choose should still follow relevant NICE guidance (such as NG87 for ADHD or the autism guidelines) and should be a properly regulated, NHS-commissioned service. The difference is usually about which organisation carries out the assessment and how long the wait might be, not the clinical approach itself.

2. Referral usually still goes through your GP

Typically, you cannot refer yourself directly. You would usually need to ask your GP to make a referral to a specific alternative provider on your behalf. GPs are not obliged to agree to every request, and they will consider whether the request is reasonable and whether the provider is appropriate for your situation.

3. Providers must be commissioned to deliver the service

For Right to Choose to apply, the provider typically needs to hold an NHS contract or equivalent commissioning arrangement to deliver the specific service in question. A provider offering only private, self-funded assessments (with no NHS-commissioned option) would not usually fall under Right to Choose rules for that service.

4. Geography and local policies can still matter

Even under a national right, local Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) and other commissioning bodies may have their own processes, forms or additional information requirements. Some areas have historically had more Right to Choose activity for ADHD and autism than others, but this shifts as commissioning changes.

How to approach a conversation with your GP

If you are considering asking about Right to Choose, it can help to:

• Write down clearly why you are asking (for example, current waiting time locally).
• Have the name of the provider or providers you are interested in ready, and check that they say they currently accept Right to Choose referrals for the specific assessment you need.
• Ask your GP practice what paperwork or information they need to consider the request.
• Be prepared for the possibility that your GP may need to check details before agreeing, or may explain reasons a particular referral isn't appropriate.

What NeuroLynk can and can't tell you

NeuroLynk is a directory, not a healthcare provider or legal adviser. We can help you find information about providers and understand general concepts like this one, but we cannot confirm your personal eligibility, guarantee that any specific provider currently accepts Right to Choose referrals, or give legal advice about your situation. Provider participation, NHS commissioning arrangements and eligibility rules can and do change, so always verify directly with the provider and your GP.

A note on getting personalised advice

If you want to understand your own eligibility, speak to your GP practice, or contact NHS England or your local ICB for up-to-date guidance. A qualified clinician or your GP is best placed to advise on your individual circumstances, including whether a Right to Choose referral is a sensible option for you.

Key takeaways

• Right to Choose is a general NHS right that may apply to some ADHD and autism assessment pathways in England.
• It relates to choice of NHS-commissioned provider, not a different kind of assessment.
• Referrals usually still go through your GP, and providers must be commissioned to deliver the service.
• Rules and participating providers change, so always check current details directly.
• This guide is educational only; speak to your GP or NHS England for advice specific to you.